Has your AC unit at home broken down? That’s one of the worst problems to have in the steamy summer months in our area.
If you are looking for van Nuys AC repair, there are some important myths we want to dispel about AC repairs:
#1 You Can Use Any Type of Refrigerant
The government is discontinuing the use of R-22, so some families have noticed that it costs more to recharge their AC system. You might think you can save money by putting in another, less expensive coolant. But if your AC tech advises this, you should call someone else. The AC manufacturer will tell you which refrigerant the unit can use. Before 2010, it was R-22 in most cases. Newer AC units use a different refrigerant, so if you put the old one in, it can damage your unit and void the warranty.
#2 Don’t Bother with Routine AC Maintenance
Many people who have no problem with their unit think they do not maintenance each year. It works great so why waste the money, right? Well, the average tune-up costs around $100, and the average repair is $500, so you do the math! Some warranties require regular maintenance, so if you do not do it, you can void your warranty. And if you delay maintenance long enough, your AC system could break down in August when it’s 100 F outside.
#3 It Costs More to Turn Up Your Thermostat When You Aren’t Home
In the end, it will boost your electricity costs to leave the thermostat set at a lower temperature all day than to increase it 10 degrees while you are gone. It usually does not need that much electricity to cool down the house when you get back. Also, consider investing in a programmable thermostat so the temperature can be changed from your phone or tablet. That way you can start the AC as you leave work.
#4 Buy an Energy-Efficient AC Unit To Save the Most Money
It is true that the most energy-efficient units will save 20% or even 50% of your electricity costs. But they also cost nearly double less-efficient units, so you should keep that in mind. Also, the best way to ensure you get the best AC unit for your home is to talk to a good AC technician. Getting the right size unit for your home is just as important as getting an energy-efficient one.
#5 Turning on a Fan Cools The Room When You Are Not There
Using a fan instead of your AC is a great way to save money. But a fan does not cool a room as an AC unit does. Your AC cools the air in the room, while the fan produces a cooling effect by increasing air circulation so your sweat evaporates faster. If you are not in the room, having the fan on just wastes electricity.
#6 Not Using Your AC Extends Its Life
You do need to call a service tech to keep your AC unit running properly when you use it often. But don’t think that if you do not use it much that it will last forever. It still can collect dust and dirt in the filter and ductwork, and this is bad for the system. If you do not use your system much, you still should have it inspected and cleaned at least every one or two years to make sure it lasts as long as possible. Now that you know some of the myths of AC repair and use, you have more information when you need to call an AC repair company.
